Airbus Helicopters H145 vs Bell 429wlg Globalranger
Both the Airbus Helicopters H145 and the Bell 429WLG GlobalRanger are twin‑engine light utility helicopters commonly used for EMS, law enforcement, corporate transport, and offshore or general utility work. In category terms, the H145 is typically positioned at the upper end of the light twin segment with a strong emphasis on multi‑mission flexibility and cabin volume, while the Bell 429WLG sits in the light twin class oriented toward speed, smooth handling, and passenger transport efficiency. On range, both offer broadly comparable real‑world mission reach for typical utility profiles, but actual achievable range depends heavily on configuration, fuel options, payload, and reserves. In general comparisons, the H145 is often selected when operators value payload/cabin flexibility alongside range, whereas the 429WLG is frequently chosen for passenger missions where cruise efficiency and trip speed are priorities. For passenger capacity, both can be configured for single‑pilot or two‑pilot operations and multiple seating layouts. Typical passenger arrangements are similar overall, but the H145 is often favored for roomier cabin configurations (especially for EMS or mixed missions), while the 429WLG commonly targets comfortable executive or shuttle seating layouts.
| Spec | AIRBUS H145 | Bell 429WLG GlobalRanger |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 9.31 | $ 6.05 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 10 | 8 |
| Flight Rules | IFR | IFR |
| Manufacturer | Airbus Helicopters | Bell |
| Aircraft Name | H145 | 429WLG GlobalRanger |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 352 | 381 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.93 | $ 0.76 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 9 | 6 |
| OEM Verification | Un-Verified | VERIFIED |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 4200 | 2528 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 8 | 6 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 1,210 | $ 931 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | EFIS | Bell BasiX-Pro |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 130 | 154 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $10,200,000 | $7,700,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 10 | 8 |
| Configuration | Green Interior | — |
| Max Cabin Seats | 9 | 6 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 8 | 6 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes |
| Model | Arriel 2E | PW207D1 |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 4000 | 4000 |
| Horsepower | 894 | 1100 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 2 |
| Fuel Burn (gph) | — | 76 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | — | 216.9 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 44.8 | 43 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 13 | 12.39 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 36.1 | 36 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 166 | 130 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 46.8 | 74 |
| Width (ft) | — | 26.37 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | — | 5 |
| Cabin Height (ft) | — | 4 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | — | 6.58 |